Friday, August 01, 2025
All the Bits Fit to Print
3D-printable Newtonian telescope designed for easy assembly and astronomy learning
The Hadley telescope is a 3D-printable, easy-to-assemble Newtonian reflector designed for under $150, aimed at making quality astronomy accessible.
Why it matters: It offers a high-performance, low-cost alternative to typical beginner telescopes, encouraging hands-on learning and astrophotography.
The big picture: This project supports DIY astronomy by providing open designs, metric/imperial options, and community-driven improvements.
The stakes: Users must avoid pointing it at the sun due to safety risks and be mindful of PLA heat sensitivity in hot environments.
Commenters say: Enthusiasts are interested in enhancing the design, particularly with adaptive optics, while praising its affordability and educational value.